Borage contains mucous substances, tannins, saponins, resins, essential oil, potassium, calcium, vitamin C and other substances.
The borage leaves contain small amounts of pyrrolizidine alkaloids found to be toxic to the liver. However, the levels of those toxic alkaloids are extremely low.
The oil from the seeds is rich in gamma-linolenic acid (GLA), an omega-6 fatty acid. The amount of GLA in the oil ranges from 20 to 27 percent.
The oil also contains about 10 percent alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), an omega-3 fatty acid.
The borage oil may help regulate the hormonal system, lowering blood pressure and cholesterol levels, strengthen the immune system, prevent allergies, premenstrual problems and prostate disorders.
The herb has been used traditionally as an herbal remedy to treat urinary tract infections, cystitis, chronic kidney inflammation, catarrh, pneumonia, tuberculosis, gastritis, irritable bowel syndrome and depression.
The plant has also its traditional external uses. It has been used and may help as a treatment for itchy inflamed skin, wounds, eczema, rashes, arthritis and gout.
As a mouthwash, it is used to treat mouth and throat infections, mouth ulcers and bleeding gums.
The oil from the seeds is an alternative to evening primrose oil for atherosclerosis, rheumatic pain, premenstrual syndrome (PMS), menstrual problems, prostate disorders, allergies, arthritis, eczema and other skin problems.
Herbal tea made from borage may be helpful to treat acne and to reduce fever.
The tea can also act as an expectorant and clear the airways, therefore it is considered a useful remedy for colds, coughs, flu, sore throat, bronchitis and respiratory tract infections.
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